Who Is Rhaenys Targaryen Exploring The Queen Who Never Was

Rhaenys Targaryen, also known as "The Queen Who Never Was," is a prominent figure in the Game of Thrones prequel series, House of the Dragon. She is portrayed by the talented actress Eve Best, and her character plays a pivotal role in the complex political landscape of the Targaryen dynasty. Understanding Rhaenys requires delving into her lineage, her claim to the Iron Throne, and the significant events that shaped her destiny. Born to Prince Aemon Targaryen, the eldest son of King Jaehaerys I Targaryen, Rhaenys possessed a strong claim to the throne from birth. Her mother, Jocelyn Baratheon, further solidified her noble lineage, connecting her to one of the Great Houses of Westeros. Rhaenys was a dragonrider, a prestigious status in Targaryen society, and her dragon was the magnificent Meleys, also known as the Red Queen. Meleys was a formidable beast, known for her speed and fiery temperament, reflecting Rhaenys' own strong-willed nature. Rhaenys' life took a dramatic turn during the Great Council of 101 AC. This council was convened to determine the successor to King Jaehaerys I, who had outlived his own children. Rhaenys was a leading contender, possessing the strongest bloodline claim. However, the lords of Westeros, steeped in patriarchal tradition, favored her cousin, Viserys I Targaryen, simply because he was male. This decision, a blatant disregard for Rhaenys' rightful claim, earned her the bitter moniker "The Queen Who Never Was," a title that encapsulates the injustice she faced and the simmering resentment it fueled. This pivotal moment in Westerosi history set the stage for the Dance of the Dragons, the Targaryen civil war, and profoundly impacted Rhaenys' life and choices. The slight she endured at the Great Council would shape her future actions and relationships, making her a key player in the unfolding drama of the Targaryen dynasty.

Rhaenys Targaryen's claim to the Iron Throne is a central element of her character and the driving force behind many of her actions in House of the Dragon. To truly grasp the significance of her claim, it's crucial to understand the Targaryen succession laws and the historical context surrounding the Great Council of 101 AC. Rhaenys was the daughter of Prince Aemon Targaryen, the eldest son of King Jaehaerys I. According to the traditional laws of inheritance, this made her the rightful heir to the Iron Throne upon Jaehaerys' death. Her claim was further strengthened by her Targaryen blood and her status as a dragonrider. In the eyes of many, she was the obvious and most deserving successor. However, the Great Council of 101 AC threw a wrench into the established order. This council was convened because King Jaehaerys I had outlived all his sons, creating a succession crisis. While Rhaenys possessed the strongest claim based on primogeniture, the lords of Westeros, dominated by patriarchal views, overwhelmingly favored her cousin, Prince Viserys I Targaryen. The decision was rooted in the preference for male heirs over female heirs, a deeply ingrained societal bias that disregarded Rhaenys' qualifications and birthright. This decision was a blatant act of sexism and a profound injustice against Rhaenys. It not only denied her the throne but also sent a clear message about the limitations placed on women in Westerosi society. The slight she endured at the Great Council became a defining moment in her life, shaping her perspective and influencing her future choices. It fueled a sense of resentment and a determination to ensure that such an injustice would not be repeated, particularly when it came to her own family. The denial of her claim served as a catalyst for the events that would ultimately lead to the Dance of the Dragons, the devastating Targaryen civil war. Rhaenys' unwavering belief in her rightful place and her commitment to her family's legacy made her a powerful force in the ensuing conflict.

In House of the Dragon, Rhaenys Targaryen is portrayed as a strong, intelligent, and fiercely independent woman who navigates the treacherous political landscape of the Targaryen court with grace and determination. Eve Best's portrayal captures the character's inner strength, her simmering resentment, and her unwavering loyalty to her family. Rhaenys is married to Lord Corlys Velaryon, the Sea Snake, a renowned mariner and the head of House Velaryon, a powerful and wealthy house with Valyrian heritage. Their marriage is a political alliance as much as a personal one, and together they form a formidable force within the Seven Kingdoms. The Velaryons, with their control of the seas and their vast fleet, provide significant support to Rhaenys and her ambitions. Throughout the series, Rhaenys serves as a key advisor and confidante to various members of the Targaryen family, including her cousin, King Viserys I, and his daughter, Princess Rhaenyra. She offers her wisdom and perspective, often challenging the decisions of those in power and advocating for what she believes is right. Her experience and her understanding of the complexities of courtly life make her a valuable asset in the game of thrones. Despite her loyalty to her family, Rhaenys remains deeply aware of the injustices she has faced and the precarious position of women in a patriarchal society. She is a keen observer of the power dynamics at play and is not afraid to speak her mind, even when it means challenging the status quo. This makes her a compelling and complex character, one who is both admired and feared. Rhaenys' relationship with Rhaenyra is particularly significant. She sees in Rhaenyra a reflection of her own past, a woman with a strong claim to the throne who faces opposition simply because of her gender. Rhaenys becomes a mentor and a role model to Rhaenyra, offering her guidance and support as she navigates the challenges of being a female heir in a world dominated by men. She understands the burden Rhaenyra carries and the sacrifices she must make, and she is determined to help her succeed. Rhaenys' actions in House of the Dragon are driven by a combination of personal ambition, loyalty to her family, and a desire to see justice prevail. She is a force to be reckoned with, a queen in her own right, and her choices will have a profound impact on the fate of the Targaryen dynasty.

The moniker "The Queen Who Never Was" is a poignant and powerful descriptor of Rhaenys Targaryen, encapsulating the injustice she suffered and the legacy of what could have been. Understanding the weight of this nickname requires delving into the historical context of the Great Council of 101 AC and the societal biases that shaped its outcome. As previously discussed, Rhaenys possessed the strongest claim to the Iron Throne upon the death of King Jaehaerys I, based on the principle of primogeniture. She was the daughter of the king's eldest son, making her the rightful heir in the eyes of the law. However, the Great Council, convened to decide the succession, ultimately chose her cousin, Viserys I, due to the prevailing preference for male rulers. This decision, a blatant disregard for Rhaenys' claim, is the core reason behind her nickname. "The Queen Who Never Was" is not simply a title; it's a symbol of the systemic sexism that permeated Westerosi society. It represents the denial of her birthright, the erasure of her qualifications, and the triumph of patriarchal tradition over justice. The nickname carries a heavy weight of disappointment and unfulfilled potential. It speaks to the opportunities Rhaenys was denied and the impact her rule could have had on the realm. It also highlights the limitations placed on women in positions of power, a theme that resonates throughout the Game of Thrones universe. While Rhaenys never sat on the Iron Throne, her legacy as "The Queen Who Never Was" is a powerful one. It serves as a reminder of the injustices of the past and a catalyst for change in the present. Her story is a testament to her strength and resilience in the face of adversity, and her unwavering commitment to her family and her principles. The nickname also adds a layer of complexity to Rhaenys' character. It fuels her ambition, her sense of responsibility, and her determination to ensure that such an injustice is not repeated. It shapes her interactions with other characters, particularly Rhaenyra, whom she sees as a potential queen who must overcome similar obstacles. In essence, "The Queen Who Never Was" is more than just a nickname; it's a symbol of Rhaenys' identity, her history, and her enduring impact on the world of House of the Dragon.

Rhaenys Targaryen's dragon, Meleys, also known as the Red Queen, is more than just a magnificent beast; she is an extension of Rhaenys' character and a powerful symbol of her strength and status. Understanding the significance of Meleys requires considering the bond between dragonrider and dragon, the dragon's unique characteristics, and its role in the Targaryen dynasty. In the world of Game of Thrones, dragons are creatures of immense power and prestige. They are symbols of Targaryen might and a key factor in their dominance over Westeros. A dragonrider is a figure of great respect and influence, and the bond between dragon and rider is a deep and mystical one. Meleys, with her fiery red scales and formidable size, perfectly embodies Rhaenys' own fiery spirit and unwavering determination. She is a dragon to be reckoned with, known for her speed and ferocity in battle. Meleys' reputation as the Red Queen further enhances Rhaenys' image as a powerful and formidable woman. The color red is often associated with passion, anger, and strength, all qualities that resonate with Rhaenys' character. The name "Queen" also underscores her rightful claim to the Iron Throne and her status as "The Queen Who Never Was." The bond between Rhaenys and Meleys is a crucial aspect of their relationship. Dragonriders and their dragons share a unique connection, almost a telepathic understanding, that allows them to fight as one. Meleys is not just a weapon for Rhaenys; she is a companion, a confidante, and an extension of her own will. In battle, Meleys is a force to be reckoned with. Her speed and agility make her a formidable opponent, and her fiery breath can incinerate anything in its path. The sight of Rhaenys soaring through the sky on Meleys is a symbol of Targaryen power and a warning to their enemies. Meleys also plays a significant role in the political landscape of House of the Dragon. Her presence adds weight to Rhaenys' voice and influence, and her potential as a weapon makes her a valuable asset in the Targaryen family's power struggles. In conclusion, Meleys is more than just a dragon; she is an integral part of Rhaenys Targaryen's identity and a powerful symbol of her strength, her status, and her unfulfilled destiny. The bond between rider and dragon is a key element of the Targaryen mythos, and the Red Queen perfectly embodies the spirit of "The Queen Who Never Was."